IN HIS OWN WORDS: Jeremy Paxman

Leeds-born Jeremy Paxman, 67, has been chairing University Challenge (8pm, BBC2) since 1994, and is one of our most famous broadcasters. Here are some of his best quotes… On his interviewees:

‘It seems to me that the way to remove people’s cynicism is, when asked a straight question, to give a straight answer… It’s not just politicians. Any spokesman for a vested interest is well-schooled in how to say what they wish to say, which may bear no relation at all to what you’ve asked them.’

On how he is perceived: ‘I hate the word “sneering”; I can’t help the way my face looks… I’m afraid I tend to be thinking about things and not paying sufficient attention to one’s posture and general cast of face… I’ve spent my whole life being told I have a face like a horse.’

On television: ‘The defining problem of contemporary television is trust – can you believe what you see on television, does television treat people fairly, is it healthy for society?’ On genealogy – before he took part in Who Do You Think You Are?: ‘I’ve always thought you have to live life looking forwards, not backwards. I’ve had no interest at all in who my ancestors are.’ On genealogy – while taking part in Who Do You Think You Are?, when he was reduced to tears by the plight of his great-great-grandmother: ‘You shouldn’t go into this family history business. It’s just upsetting.’ On his motivation: ‘The early bird may get the worm, but it’s the second mouse that gets the cheese.’